Passover prompts reflections on Jewish history, national identity, and the ongoing pursuit of freedom. Despite adversities, Jews have persevered as a distinct people, preserving their values and giving the world the concept of universal freedom. While divine intervention is crucial, human agency, ingenuity, and effort are also essential for realizing redemption and overcoming obstacles. Miriam exemplifies the visionary spirit that inspires action and creates a better world.
The annual Seder, a traditional Jewish ceremony commemorating the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt, continues to draw high levels of participation due to its timeless values and relevance to current issues. The Seder reminds Jews of their history of oppression and the importance of kindness and justice. Despite modern changes, the Seder endures as a way to connect with past struggles and present challenges.
During Passover, when Jews eat unleavened bread called matzo, pizza has become a popular dish. Ten-year-old Hudson Greenstein started selling matzo pizza after being inspired at a local restaurant and has expanded to two locations this year. Matzo, a staple of the holiday, has a long history of being used in creative ways, such as in ancient pita-like forms. While some Hasidic Jews avoid adding liquids to matzo, many others have embraced matzo pizza as an American Jewish recipe. The dish can be made with jarred tomato sauce and store-bought cheese, or with homemade sauce and quality ingredients for a more sophisticated taste.
In the wake of Hamas’ terrorist attack against Israel, tensions have escalated globally, including in U.S. cities and on college campuses. However, amid the unrest, members of the Muslim and Jewish communities are coming together to promote understanding and mend divisions. Imam Muhammad Kolila and Rabbi Joseph Black, who have forged a strong friendship, have been instrumental in fostering interfaith relationships in their communities. Through dialogue, shared meals, and attendance at each other’s religious events, they have created a bridge between their communities and demonstrated that addressing conflict requires understanding and empathy rather than extremism.
Laniado Hospital in Netanya has partnered with a renowned chef to elevate the dining experience for both patients and staff during Passover. The carefully crafted menu showcases a tantalizing array of dishes, offering a delightful culinary journey that respects traditions while introducing innovative and flavorful twists.
The author, who has struggled with disordered eating in the past, reflects on the challenges and rewards of observing the Jewish holiday of Passover. Despite her initial anxiety about restricting her food intake, she finds that the act of keeping kosher connects her to her faith and reminds her that Judaism is more than just a religion; it’s a way of life. While she doesn’t know if she’ll continue to keep kosher in the future, she appreciates the opportunity to have experienced it and to have learned more about her Jewish heritage.
Passover episodes are a unique breed of holiday special, exploring the traditions and tensions of this important Jewish festival. From heartwarming moments to chaotic family gatherings, these episodes capture the essence of Passover in all its glory. Join us as we delve into 19 unforgettable TV Seders, ranked by their level of drama, humor, and cultural authenticity.
Passover 2024 will be observed from April 22 to April 29 or 30, depending on the location. This year’s celebration is later than usual due to the lunisolar calendar, which aligns with the phases of the Moon and the Sun’s position. Passover Seder, a central part of the celebration, commemorates the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. During the Seder, families gather for a festive meal and recite the Haggadah, a religious text that retells the story of the Exodus. Six symbolic foods are prepared to represent the Israelites’ liberation, including matzah, shank bone, egg, bitter herbs, charoset, and vegetables. Passover is a significant holiday in the Jewish calendar and is universally observed by Jews of all backgrounds.
Manischewitz, the iconic kosher-for-Passover brand, has undergone a major rebranding effort to appeal to a younger demographic. The new packaging features bright colors, playful cartoon figures, and a resealable bag design for macaroons, replacing the traditional canister. The aim is to update the brand’s cultural relevance and attract a mainstream audience beyond its Jewish customer base. The rebranding is part of a broader strategy to revitalize the company, which has faced challenges in recent years. Manischewitz is also expanding its social media presence and introducing new products to be consumed year-round.
A recent report by the American Jewish Committee found that 94% of Jews and 74% of all U.S. adults perceive antisemitism as a serious problem. During the week leading up to Passover, the Combat Antisemitism Movement detailed numerous shocking anti-Semitic incidents in March 2024. Additionally, the Anti-Defamation League reported 3,300 anti-Semitic incidents in the final quarter of last year, including physical assaults, vandalism, harassment, and support for terrorism. College campuses have become a particular area of concern, with students facing alarming instances of intimidation and violence. Jewish leaders express deep concern over the escalation of extremist rhetoric and calls for violence, emphasizing that such behavior is not legitimate political speech but rather hate speech targeting Jews. The ongoing situation in Gaza, where Hamas holds 130 hostages, further heightens these concerns.
